selective service

noun

1. compulsory military service.

selective service

noun

1. (formerly) compulsory military service under which men were conscripted selectively

Word History and Origins

Origin of selective service¹

First recorded in 1919

Example Sentences

I'm opposed to dictators, myself; that—and the Selective Service law, of course—was why I was a soldier.

From Project Gutenberg

This was intensified throughout the land by the operation of the Selective Service Act.

From Project Gutenberg

Cadigan Exhibit No. 21 includes the selective service registration certificate we have been discussing, is that correct?

From Project Gutenberg

July 20—Drawing at Washington of names for first army under selective service.

From Project Gutenberg

Selective Service wanted to eliminate the quota system altogether.

From Project Gutenberg